1) Why did you decide to enter the British Gas Great Scottish Swim?
As a warm up for the Great North Swim. I'd seen it on TV and was looking for a challenge.
2) What is your previous experience of open water swimming?
None.
3) Are you a keen swimmer?
Yes. I swam competitively as a teenager.
4) What type and how much training did you do?
I trained at Nuffield Health where I'm a member. Initially I swam twice per week then stepped it up to three times towards the end. I built up to 1,500 metres continuous swimming and then timed myself each swim to monitor progress. Towards the end I extended the distance to 2,000m.
During the two weeks before the Great Scottish Swim I went to Ireland on holiday. I took my wetsuit and swam in the sea every second day. It was vital in preparing me for Strathclyde Park.
"...Definitely get some practice in open water beforehand. It's very different from a pool so you'll know what to expect."
5) Did you make a weekend of it in North Lanarkshire?
Yes. My folks live in Glasgow.
6) Did you have friends or family supporting you?
Yes. My dad and sister came along, some cousins came up from Gloucestershire to support me and a few friends who live near Strathclyde Park came along on the day. They provided great encouragement.
7) What did you enjoy most about the event?
Getting out at the end feeling elated and raising over £2,300 for charity.
8) Was the cold water as bad as everyone thinks?
Not at all. The wetsuit did its job.
9) What is the best piece of advice you could give to someone doing it this year?
Definitely get some practice in open water beforehand. It's very different from a pool so you'll know what to expect.
10) What is the one item you can't do without on the day?
My wetsuit.